The Maldivian government has confirmed that it will not mandate the relocation of residents from any island to another.
Presidential Spokesperson Heena Waleed addressed the issue at a press conference held at the President's Office, emphasizing that while proposals for relocating people from smaller to larger islands are common, no forced moves will be implemented.
Heena stated that, although the government receives proposals for relocating populations from small islands to larger ones, each request is carefully evaluated based on its feasibility, potential impacts, and benefits. The government remains committed to ensuring that any such relocations are voluntary and based on genuine needs.
Her remarks follow a recent petition from the residents of Raiymandhoo Island, who have requested relocation due to insufficient basic services on their island. In response, the President announced that the upcoming 20-year national development plan will incorporate policies for population consolidation and development, as outlined in his manifesto. This plan includes the establishment of urban centers across seven regions of the country.
The government’s stance aims to reassure island residents that their current homes will not be forcibly taken from them and that any relocation will be pursued only under voluntary and well-considered circumstances.
Presidential Spokesperson Heena Waleed addressed the issue at a press conference held at the President's Office, emphasizing that while proposals for relocating people from smaller to larger islands are common, no forced moves will be implemented.
Heena stated that, although the government receives proposals for relocating populations from small islands to larger ones, each request is carefully evaluated based on its feasibility, potential impacts, and benefits. The government remains committed to ensuring that any such relocations are voluntary and based on genuine needs.
Her remarks follow a recent petition from the residents of Raiymandhoo Island, who have requested relocation due to insufficient basic services on their island. In response, the President announced that the upcoming 20-year national development plan will incorporate policies for population consolidation and development, as outlined in his manifesto. This plan includes the establishment of urban centers across seven regions of the country.
The government’s stance aims to reassure island residents that their current homes will not be forcibly taken from them and that any relocation will be pursued only under voluntary and well-considered circumstances.
